Lead - Gene Assembly

The Lead - Gene Assembly at Eurofins Scientific is tasked with various responsibilities, primarily focusing on cloning and high-throughput gene synthesis processes. This includes performing cloning DNA into expression vectors, troubleshooting and investigating failed targets, and leading the training of new employees. Additionally, the role involves writing and maintaining Gene Assembly standard operating procedures, working on assembly projects, and ensuring production protocols are followed accurately.

To thrive as a Lead - Gene Assembly at Eurofins Scientific, candidates should possess a strong background in molecular biology, with hands-on experience in DNA and enzyme properties, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Ideal applicants should also showcase outstanding organizational skills, attention to detail, and an ability to work collaboratively within a team. Experience with liquid handling robots and data manipulation via databases is preferred, highlighting the technical expertise that is crucial for this role.

The Lead - Gene Assembly position at Eurofins Scientific is structured around an 8-hour work schedule, requiring weekend work. Candidates can expect to work from Sunday to Thursday or Tuesday to Saturday, with shifts scheduled from either 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This scheduling allows for flexibility and ensures coverage across the essential activities in the lab.

As a Lead - Gene Assembly at Eurofins Scientific, you play a vital role in fostering team success by leading by example and encouraging your colleagues to reach their full potential. Your leadership influences the team's productivity and quality of outputs by mentoring new employees and ensuring adherence to established protocols and best practices. By being actively engaged in troubleshooting and guiding team members, you help maintain a high standard of excellence within the Gene Assembly team.

Eurofins Scientific offers various career growth opportunities for its Lead - Gene Assembly positions. Employees are encouraged to pursue professional development through workshops, training, and leadership programs. As Eurofins is a global leader in the life sciences sector, successful performance in this role could lead to advancement into greater leadership positions within the organization, allowing you to shape the future of gene synthesis and laboratory practices.

In preparing for your interview, it’s essential to discuss specific gene cloning techniques you’ve utilized, such as restriction digestion, ligation, and transformation. Highlight any successful projects and the outcomes, emphasizing your role in problem-solving during the cloning process. Providing an example where you had to troubleshoot a failed clone will showcase your analytical and critical thinking ability.

When answering this question, detail the steps you take when addressing PCR failures, such as checking reagent quality, optimizing annealing temperatures, and reviewing primer design. Mention any specific experiences where your troubleshooting led to a successful outcome, and discuss how you document these processes to inform future experiments.

Accuracy can be ensured through meticulous attention to detail and following established protocols rigorously. Discuss your process for double-checking data, running controls, and the importance of sequencing verification. Additionally, share how you maintain comprehensive records of your experiments to facilitate research integrity.

In your response, detail any experience with liquid handling systems, describing how they improve efficiency and accuracy in the lab environment. Talk about specific equipment you’ve operated, such as automated pipetting systems, and cite examples of how your skill in using such technologies has enhanced productivity or reduced error rates in your previous roles.

Display your leadership qualities by providing an example of a high-pressure situation where you took charge. Discuss how you delegated tasks, rallied your team, and maintained morale while ensuring that project deadlines were met. Emphasize the positive outcomes and lessons learned that you can apply in the position of Lead - Gene Assembly.

Training new team members involves a mix of structured orientation and hands-on guidance. Discuss your approach to onboarding, which might include creating training materials, pairing new hires with mentors, and assessing their progress regularly. Highlight how your strategies ensure that new employees understand their responsibilities and feel supported as they transition into their roles.

In answering this question, illustrate your time management strategies, including how you prioritize responsibilities based on urgency and importance. Share examples of methodologies you utilize, such as task lists or project management software, to stay organized and ensure that team deliverables align with deadlines without compromising quality.

Provide insights into your familiarity with sequencing technologies and data analysis. Talk about specific software tools you’ve used and how you interpret results to ascertain the quality of gene assembly. Discuss any instances where your analysis has directly influenced decisions in cloning projects, showcasing your critical thinking strengths.

Discuss attributes such as communication, empathy, decisiveness, and integrity that define an effective team leader. Share your thoughts on how these qualities contribute to a positive team environment and the successful achievement of objectives in the Gene Assembly team.

It's important to convey your genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. Talk about your alignment with Eurofins' mission of improving health and sustainability through scientific innovation. Express how your skills and experiences make you a great fit for the role and how you’re excited to contribute to their pioneering work in gene synthesis.